Northbound Appalachian Trail thru-hikers who are nearing Mt. Katahdin can be classified in two groups. The closer they get to Katadin, it's more obvious which group they are in.
Hikers of one group want to finish as soon as possible. It’s been a long hike, and by now they are feeling worn out. They are ready to do something else that doesn’t involve walking for 10-12 hours a day.
Hikers in the other group don’t want their hike to end. They are slowing down to stretch out the experience as long as possible.